Vending machine



April 7, 1964 A. w. HOLSTEIN ETAL 3,128,013

VENDING MACHINE April 7, 1964 A. w. HOLSTEIN ETAL 3,128,013

VENDING MACHINE Filed April 7. 1961 9 Sheets-Sheet 2 FIGZ.

April 7, 1964 A. w. HOLSTEIN ETAL. 3,128,013

VENDING MACHINE 9 Sheets-Sheet 3 Filed April 7, 1961 Apri-l 7, 1964 A.w.rHoL sTElN ETAL 3,128,013

VENDING MACHINE Filed April 7, 1951 9 Sheets-Sheet 4 FIG. 4.

A. w, HOLSTEIN ETAL 3,128,013

April 7, 1964 VENDING MACHINE 9 Sheets-Sheet 5 Filed April 7. 1961 April7, 1964 A. w. HOLSTEIN ETAL 3,128,013

VENDING MACHINE 9 Sheets-Sheet 6 Filed April 7, 1961 FIG. I I.

FIG. IO.

FIG. I2.

April 7, 1964 A. w. HOLSTEIN ETAL 3,128,013

' VENDING MACHINE Filed April 7, 1961 9 sheets-sheet 7 April 7, 1964Filed April 7, 1961 FIG. I9.

A. w. HOLSTEIN ETAL VENDING MACHINE 9 Sheets-Sheet 8 April 7, 1964 A. w.HOLSTEIN ETAL 3,128,013'

l VENDING MACHINE Filed April 7, 1961 9 Sheets-Sheet 9 1 [MZ EM3 229 i?RUC L 7 United States Patent O 3,128,013 VENDING MACHINE Alvin W.Holstein, Brentwood, Harry H. Pryor, St. Louis, and Fred J. Melvin,Bellefontaine Neighbors, Mo., assignors, by mesne assignments, toUniversal Match Corporation, Ferguson, Mo., a corporation of DelawareFiled Apr. 7, 1961, Ser. No. 101,465 11 Claims. (Cl. 221-129) Thisinvention relates to vending machines, and more particularly to avending machine of a type `for vending cartons of cigarettes or likepackages.

Among the several objects of the invention may be noted the provision ofa vending machine of the class described which, while having a largecapacity for cartons of cigarettes or the like, is relatively compactconsidering the number of cartons which may be stocked therein; theprovision of a vending machine of the class described having a pluralityof magazines, each of which is adapted to hold a stack of cartons andvwhich is adapted to dispense the lowermost carton' of the stack, withthe magazines arranged one beh-ind another in the cabinet of the machinefor maximum utilization of space in the cabinet; the provision of avending machine which is easy to load despite having magazines onebehind another; the provision of a vending machine such as describedhaving a plurality of vending columns each comprising a plurality ofmagazines, these columns being mounted for individual movement from aposition within the cabinet to a loading position outside the cabinet,the columns being positioned `side-by-side when in the cabinet formaximum utilization of space therein and the magazines being adapted toreasy loading from one side thereof by moving the columns outward toloading position; the provision of a vending machine such as describedadapted to permit a number of the magazines to be stocked with the samebrands of cigarettes and to provide for vending `from a second of thesemagazines when a rst is emptied, from a third when the second isemptied, etc.; and the provision of a vending machine such as describedwhich is reliable in operation. Other objects and features will be inpart apparent and in part pointed out hereinafter.

rIihe invention accordingly comprises Ithe constructions `hereinafterdescribed, the scope of the invention being indicated in the followingclaims.

In the accompanying drawings in which one of various possibleembodiments of the invention is illustrated,

FIG. 1 is a perspective of a carton vending machine of this invention;

FIG. 2 is a ffront elevation of the left-hand portion of the machinewith a door thereof shown in open position, the ydoor being partlybroken away to reduce the Width of the view;

FIG. 3 is a horizontal section taken on line 3 3 of FIG. 2, andillustrating a column of the machine pulled out to loading position;

FIG. 4 is a vertical cross section taken on line 4--4 of FIG. 3, butshowing the door closed;

FIG. 5 is an enlarged fragment of FIG. 4, showing the lower end of amagazine, and with parts broken away and shown in section;

lFIG. 6 is an enlarged elevation of the left-hand side of FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is an enlarged elevation of the right-hand side of FIG. 5;

FIG. 8 is a plan View of the top of one column;

IFIG. 9 is an enlarged 4vertical section taken on line 9-9 of FIG. 8;

FIG. l0 is an enlarged vertical section taken on line' 10--10- of FIG.5;

ice

FIG. 1l is a view corresponding to FIG. 10 showing a moved position ofparts;

FIG. 12 is an enlarged yfragment of FIG. 8, showing mechanism foractuating a magazine empty switch;

FIG. 13 is a side elevation of FIG. 12;

FIG. 14 is an enlarged vertical section taken on line 14-14 of FIG. 2';

FIG. 15 is a vertical section taken on line 15-15 of FIG. 114;

FIG. 16 is an enlarged elevation of the upper portion of a column, withparts broken away to reduce the length of the view, and showing aContact arrangement;

FIG. 17 is an enlarged `fragment of FIG. 2;

FIG. 18 is an enlarged vertical section taken on line 18-18 of FIG. 14;

FIG. 19 is a horizontal section taken on line 19-19 of FIG. 6, showingin solid lines a feeler as it appears when engaging a carton and showingin `dotted lines the position of the feeler when the magazine is emtpy;

FIG. 20Vis a horizontal section taken on line 20--20 of FIG. 17; and

FI-GS. Z1 and 212 are wiring diagrams.

Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding partsthroughout the severall views of the drawings.

Referringto the drawings, first more particularly to FIG. l, a lcartonvending machine of this invention is shown to comprise a cabinet 1divided into leftand right-hand compartments by a money-handling unit 3.The latter extends centrally of the cabinet from front to rear. 'InFIGS. 2 4, the left-hand compartment is shown, being Vdesignated 5. Thecabinet has a front door 7 for the `left-hand compartment and a frontdoor (also designated 7 in FIG. l) for the right-hand compartment. Theleft-hand door 7 is hinged at its -lelit side to be swingable outwardawayfrom the cabinet on a vertical axis. The right-hand door is hingedvat its right side to be swingable outward away from the cabinet on avertical axis. Each compartment contains dispensing apparatus to bedescribed, the apparatus in the two compartments being generallyidenticalV except that they are lett-hand and right-hand versions of thesame construction. Accordingly, a description of the apparatus in theleft-hand compartment, as Ltollows, will suffice for both..

Thus, the apparatus in the left-hand compartment comprises a pluralityof vending columns, each generally designated by the letter C. Thereare, for example, six such columns in the lett-hand compartment; and`these7 are specifically designated C1-C6. These six columns areidentical, each comprising a plurality of magazines, each magazine beinggenerally designated by the letter M. As

cigarette packs or' regular size packs to be vended. Meansv is providedfor' mounting each column for movement from a position Within thecabinet to a forward loading position outside the cabinet or,alternatively, to a rearward loading positionl outside the cabinet. Thecabinet 1 has a removable rear panel 8 for the latter purpose. FIG. 3shows the column C5 in forward loading position (the leftlhalnd door 7being open). The mounting arrangement is such that columns C1-C6, whenin the cabinet, are positioned side-by-side closely adjacent one anotherfor maximum utilization of space in the cabinet. The columns andmagazines are so constructed that any given magazine may be loaded fromone side of the magazine (the right side as to any magazine of anyleft-hand column and the left side as -to any magazine of any righthandcolumn) when the column including that magazine is in loading position.Each magazine has dispensing means associated therewith for dispensingthe lowermost carton of the stack contained therein, as will be madeclear.

Referring more panticularly to FIG. 3, it will be observed that, as toeach of 'columns C1'-C6, the three magazines thereof are located onebehind another, with the long dimensions of the magazine cross sectionsextending in tinont-to-rear direction. Thus, as to column C1, magazineM1 is at the front, MZ is behind M1, and M3 is at the rear behind M2; asto column CZ, magazine M4 is at the front, M5 is behind M4, and M6 is atthe rear behind M5. The arrangement as to the other columns M5, M8, M11,M14 and M17 are of lesser height than the will be apparent. Themagazines are all substantially identical, except that the intermediatemagazines M2, M5, M8, M11, M14 and M17 are of lesser height than thefront magazines M1, M4, M7, M119, M13 and M16, and the rear magazinesM3, M6, M9, M12, M15 and M18 are of lesser height than the intermediatemagazines (see FIG. 4). All the magazines have their upper ends at thesame level so that the lower ends of the intermediate magazines areabove the lower ends of the front magazines and the lower ends of therear magazines are above the lower ends of the intermediate magazines.

yEach column includes an elongated horizontal top member 9 (see FIGS. 2,4, 8, 9 and 12-15), shown as consisting of a chiannelesection memberhaving a bottom web .1#1, upstanding sides 13, and `outwardly extendinghorizontal anges 15 at the upper edges of the sides. The three magazinesof each column have their upper ends secured to the bottom of the columntop member or channel 9, `and extend downwardly therefrom. Each magazinecomprises a channel-section member, the web of which is designated 17`and the flanges of which are each design-ated 19. The latter haveinturned marginal lips 21 (see FIGS. 3 and 4). Flanges 19 have a widthslightly greater than the width of a carton A of king size cigarettepacks. Web 1|7 has a width slight-'ly greater than the length of acarton. The width of channel 9 corresponds to the width of flanges 19and the length of channel 9 is somewhat greater than three times thewidth of a web 17.

As to each column in the left-hand compartment, the three magazines havetheir upper ends secured to channel 9 with their webs 17 in a verticalplane at the left side of channel 9, anges 119 of each magazinetherefore extending toward the right front web 17. It will be understoodthat this arrangement is reversed as to the columns in the right handcompartment, ie., Webs 17 are in a vertical plane at the right side ofchannel 9, with flanges 19 extending toward the left. Thus, themagazines of 'the columns in the .left-hand compartment face right, andthe magazines of the columns in the right-hand compartment face left.

As to each column, the three magazines thereof hang d-own lfrom lchannel9, with the front magazine the tallest, and the rear magazine theshortest so that the lower ends of the three magazines are steppeddownward from the rear toward the front as appears in FIG. 4. The threemagazines are spaced apart along the length of channel 9, with spaces 23between the rear ilange of the front magazine `and the liront flange ofthe intermediate magazine and between the rear flange of theintermediate magazine and the front flange of the rear magazine. Thethree magazines of each column are braced -by a horizon/tal brace 25extending on the outside of the webs 17 of the magazines aboutmid-height of the front magazines.

The web 17 of each magazine has an opening 27 (see FIGS. 5, l0 and ll)adjacent the lower end of the magazine. This is a rectangular opening,extending from near one flange 19 to near the other flange 19 of themagazine. At this region, the flanges 19 have widened portions 29, eachof the latter having an inturned marginal lip 31. Lips 21 of anges 19extend from just above widened flange portions 29 to points short of theupper ends of anges 19. A horizontal brace 33 spans lips 21 at the lowerend of the latter. Flaps 35 are hinged as indicated at 37 to the edgesof flanges 19 above lip 21, the hinging being such as to allow the flapsto be slid up and down. The flaps are adapted to occupy a downwardclosed position wherein their lower ends are behind bent-out upper endportions 37 of lips 21. The llaps are adapted to be slid upward and thenswung out to open the upper end portion of the magazine for insertion ofcartons, after which they are swung back in and slid down for engagementof their lower ends behind upper end portions 38 of lips 21 to retaincartons at the upper end of the magazine within the magazine. Cartonsbelow the ilaps are retained in the magazine by lips 21.

A horizontal shaft 39 extends between portions 29 of anges 19 of eachmagazine adjacent the left-hand lower corners of portions 29. This shaftis journalled in openings in portions 29 and has crank arms 41 ofgenerally triangular shape secured on its ends outside portions 29 (seeFIGS. 6 and 7). Arms 41 extend upward from shaft 39, and each has anotch 43 at its upper end. Flange portions 29 have horizontal slots 45at the top thereof extending toward the right from near the left-handedges of portions 29. A rod 47 has end portions received in slots 45 andnotches 43, and is slidable in slots 45 upon rocking of arms 41. Coiltension springs 49 connected between the ends of rod 57 and ears 51 onflange portions 29 bias rod 47 to move tov/ard the right as viewed inFIG. 6 and thereby bias arms 41 to swing clockwise as viewed in FIG. 6.Rod 47 is normally held back in a retracted position at the rear ofslots 45 against the bias of springs 49 as will be made clear. In itsretracted position, rod 47 is located outward of the web 17 of themagazine, clear of cartons stacked up in the magazine.

A gate or trap door 53 is provided for supporting the stack of cartonsin the magazine. This trap door has downwardly extending end anges 55which have downward extensions 57 at one end receiving shaft 39 forpivoting the trap door on the shaft axis. A rod 59 extends between thecrank arms 39 through arcuate slots 61 in flange portions 29 and throughholes in trap door anges 55, the arrangement being such that when rod 47and arms 41 are in their retracted position, the trap door is held up inhorizontal carton-supporting position (see FIGS. 6 and l0) and when thearms 41 rock clockwise as viewed in FIG. 6, the trap door tilts downward(see FIG. ll) to allow the lowermost carton to slide olf. When thisoccurs, rod 47 moves to the posi tion illustrated in FIG. 1l underneaththe next carton above. It will be observed that the pivotal axis of thetrap door 53 is below and at the left of the trap door, and that thearrangement is therefore such that as the trap door swings down todischarge the carton thereon, the upper left edge of the carton beingdischarged is brought forward and immediately downward so that it doesnot llave to push up against the stack of cartons.

A presser plate 63 is provided for pressing the carton (which may bereferred to as the second carton) immediately above the carton beingdischarged to hold it in horizontal position in the magazine, ie., toprevent it from tipping on rod 47 as the first carton is beingdischarged. This plate is generally rectangular in shape, having alength somewhat less than the length of the opening 27 in the web 17 ofthe magazine and a height corresponding to the height of opening 27. Ithas outwardly extending end ilanges 65, and is pivoted for swingingmovement on a horizontal axis adjacent the top of opening 27 by means ofa horizontal rod 67 extending through these flanges and through ears 69bent out from the web 17 of the magazine. Flanges 65 are formed withlaterally extending ears 71, and coil tension springs '73 connected to.these ears and connected at 75, to the magazine bias the plate 63 toswing in through openingl 27 into gripping engagement with the secondcarton. Flanges 05 have downward extensions 77 which engage rod 47. Thelatter, when in retracted position, holds plate 63 back in retractedposition clear of the second carton (see FIG. When rod 47 is advanced onoperation of crank arms 41, plate 63 swings forward to engage the backof the second carton and press it against brace 33, thereby in effectclamping it in the magazine (see FIG. 11).

Means is provided for rocking the crank arms 41 of each magazine toswing the respective trap door 53 from its horizontal carton-supportingposition of FIGS. 6, 7 and 10 to a vertical discharge position (see FIG.11) and then back to horizontal position. As shown, this means comprisesan electric motor, one for each magazine, mounted on the column topchannel 9. Each motor is generally designated by the letters EM, and inFIGS. 8 and 16 the motors for magazines M1, M2 and M3 are speciallydesignated EM1, EM?. and EMS. The motor for the front magazine of eachcolumn is located somewhat forward of the intermediate magazine, themotor for the intermediate magazine is located somewhat forward of therear magazine, and the motor for the rear magazine is located adjacentthe rear end of channel 9. Thus, the motor EM1 is located somewhatforward of magazine M1, the motor EM2 is located somewhat forward ofmagazine M2, and the motor EMS is located adjacent the rear end ofchannel 9. The shaft of each motor is designated 79, and the motor ismounted on the web 11 of channel 9 with the shaft extending lengthwiseof channel 9. Shaft 79 has a fan S1 at its forward end and its rearwardend extends into a speed-reducing gear box 83. The output shaft of thegear box is indicated at S5 in FIG. 9. A crank S7 has a hub 09 fixed onthe output shaft. A link 91 connects crank 87 and the rear crank arm 41of the respective magazine. The link 91 for the front magazine of eachcolumn extends down through a hole 92 in the web 11 of channel 9 andthrough the space 23 between the front magazine and the intermediatemagazine. The link 91 for the intermediate magazine of each columnextends down through a hole 92 in the web of channel 9 and through thespace 23 between the intermediate magazine and the rear magazine. Thelink 91 for the rear magazine extends down through a hole 92. in the webof channel 9 at the rear of the rear magazine. An eyebolt 93 (see FIG.7) is threaded in ears 9S at the lower end of each link 91 and ispin-connected as indicated at 97 to the respective crank arm 41. Thearrangement is such that upon operation of a motor EM to rotate therespective output shaft 85 and the crank S7 thereon through a singlerevolution, the respective trap door 53 is swung down from its initialhorizontal position to a downwardly extending vertical position, andreturned back upward to horizontal position.

Means is provided for energizing each motor to drive the respectiveshaft 85 and crank 87 through a single revolution, and then deenergizingthe motor. As to each motor, this means includes a motor switch mountedon gear box 83 above the hub 89 of the crank 07. Each motor switch isgenerally designated by the letters MS, and in FIGS. 8 and 16 theswitches for motors EM1, BMZ and EMS are specially designated M81, MS2and M83. Each of hubs 89 is formed as a cam with a lobe 99 engageablewith actuator 101 of the respective motor switch. The arrangement issuch that the trailing end of lobe 99 is initially just off the switchactuator (see FIG. 9). Upon energization of the motor, shaft 85 (undercontrol as will be subsequently described) and crank 87 rotate clockwiseas viewed in FIG. 9. Near the end of a revolution, lobe 99 engages andactuates the switch actuator 101. This instigates deenergization of themotor as will be made clear, and the shaft S5 and crank 87 complete asingle revolution, returning to their initial FIG. 9 position. Upon eachrevolution of crank 87, link 91 is driven downward and then pulled backupward, thereby to swing trap door 53 downward and then move it backupward.

Each of the columns C is suspended from the top of the cabinet by trackmeans generally designated T which permits each column to slide forwardand rearward. As to each column, track means T comprises a pair of outerrails, each designated 103, secured to the top of the cabinet. Each ofthese fixed outer rails 103 lis of channel section. The two rails of thepair are arranged vertically with their open sides opposed to oneanother, extending from front to rear of the cabinet. Each rail has aZ-section bar 105 (see FIGS. 14, 15 and 17) fixed to the inside thereofextending horizontally from near its forward end to near its rearwardend. Bars 105, in conjunction with the bottom flanges 107 of the pair offixed rails 103, define a pair of channels in which slide a pair ofextensible inner rails 109. The latter are of channel shape in crosssection. Each carries upper and lower rollers 111 and 113 at both thefront and rear, upper and lower rollers 115 and 117 at the center of itslength, a lower roller 119 intermediate front and center, and a lowerroller 121 intermediate center and rear. The lower rollers of each innerrail 109 project through openings such as indicated at 123 in the bottomflange 125y of the inner rail 109, and ride on bottom flange 107 of therespective fixed outer rail 103. The top flange 127' of each inner rail109 terminates short of the upper rollers 111 at the ends of the innerrail. These upper rollers 111 project up above the top llange 127 of theinner rail, being engageable with the horizontal web of the Z-sectionbar 1'05.

The hroizontal flanges 15 of the column top channel 9 bear on the lowerrollers of the inner rails 109 and are confined by the upper centerlrollers 115 of the inner rails. The pair of inner rails 109 is slidableforward and rearward in the fixed outer rails 103, and channel 9 isslidable forward and rearward relative to the inner rails. As hereinillustrated, the track arrangement is adapted for forward slide-out ofthe inner rails 109 and channel 9 so that each column C is movable fromretracted position within cabinet 1 to a forward loading positionoutside the cabinet (note FIG. 3 in which column C5 is shown in forwardloading position). Means is providedV for limiting forward movement ofthe inner rails 109, and means is provided for limiting forward movementof channel 9 relative to the inner rails.

The means for limiting the forward movement of each pair of extensibleinner railsV 109 comprises a pair of blocks 129, one on each rail 109 ofthe pair, secured to the rear ends of the rails 109. Each block has alateral projection 131 (see FIG. 18) extends underneath the bottom edgeof the downwardly extending vertical flange 133 of the respectiveZ-section bar 105. Flange 133 has a downwardly extending projection 135at the center of its length. On forward slide-out of the extensibleinner rails 1.09, projections 131 engage the rear edges of projections135 to limit the forward movement of the inner rails, the arrangementbeing such that about half the length of the inner rails then. projectsforward out of cabinet 1. Blocks 129 are. removable from the rear endsof rails 109 and attachable to the forward ends of rails 109 forreversing the slide-out when it is desired to have the columns slide outrearward toa rearward loading position. Projections 131 are thenengageable with the forward edges of projections 135.

The means for limiting the forward movementof the channel 9 relative tothe inner rails 109 comprises a pair of lugs 137 carried by channel 9,one at eachside of channel 9 on the inside of the respective side wall13A of the channel. These lugs are integral parts of blocks 139 securedto side walls 13 of channel 9, and project upward above the level ofhorizontal flanges 15 of the channel. The two inner rails 109 of thetrack means T for each column are interconnected at their forward endsby a bridge piece 141 of inverted U-shape (see FIG. 17). The sides ofthis bridge piece have inwardly directed feet 143 at their lower ends.On forward slide-out of channel 9 relative to the inner rails 109 lugs137 on the channelengage the feet 143 on the bridge piece 141 to limitthe forward movement of channel 9 relative to the inner rails. Thearrangement is such that with the inner rails 109 extended to theirlimit, and channel 9 extended to its limit, the column is fully extendedas illustrated for column C in FIG. 3. The bridge piece 141 is removablefrom the forward end of the pair of inner rails 109 and attachable tothe rearward end thereof for reversing the slide-out when it is desiredto have the columns slide out rearward to a rearward loading position.Each channel 9 has a pair of bumpers 144 at its forward end which bumpthe forward edges of the outer rails 193 when the column is moved inwardfrom its loading position. These are removable and attachable to therear end of channel 9 when it is desired to have the columns slide outrearward to a rearward loading position.

The machine includes a plurality of empty switches, one for eachmagazine. Each switch is generally designated by the letters ES, and theempty switches for magazines M1, M2 and M3 are specially designated E81,ESZ and ESS. The empty switches are secured to the top of the cabinetbetween the outer rails 103. Thus, between each pair of outer rails 103there are three empty switches, one at the front, the second at aposition corresponding to the location of space 23 between the front andintermediate magazines of the respective column C when the latter is inretracted position in cabinet 1, and the third at a positioncorresponding to the location of the space 23 between the intermediateand rear magazines of the respective column C when the latter is inretracted position in cabinet 1. For each empty switch, there is anoperating mechanism, generally designated by the letter D. In FIGS. 8and 16, the empty switch operating mechanisms for magazines M1, M2 andM3 are specially designated D1, D2 and D3. Each empty switch operatingmechanism comprises a support 145 of inverted U-shape mounted on the web11 of channel 9. A switch-actuating lever 147 is pivoted at 149 on topof support 145 for swinging movement on a horizontal axis extendinglengthwise as regards channel 9. Downward swing of lever 147 is limitedby its engagement with a stop pin 151 carried by support 145. Withchannel 9 in retracted position within cabinet 1, lever 147 is adaptedto be held up in a switch actuating position by a roller 153 on an arm155 secured to the upper end of a feeler rod 157. Each rod is journalledin an opening in the top of the respective support 145, and extendsdownward therefrom through web 11 of channel 9. The rod 157 for thefront magazine of each column extends down in front of the frontmagazine. The rod 157 for the intermediate magazine of each columnextends down in the space 23 between the front and intermediatemagazines. The rod 157 for the rear magazine of each column extends downin the space 23 between the intermediate and the rear magazine. Each rod157 is journalled adjacent its lower end in an ear 159 struck out fromthe front ange 19 of the respective magazine. At its lower end, each rod157 has an oifset linger 161 adapted to feel into the respectivemagazine through a slot 163 in the front flange 19 of the magazine. Acoil tension spring 165 connected between support 145 and arm 15S biasesthe arm and the rod 157 to swing counterclockwise as viewed from above,which is in the direction to swing the feeler nger 161 into the magazineto detect whether or not there is a carton on the trap door 53. Feelerfinger 161 is adapted to be held out of the magazine by engagement witha carton on the trap door 53 (see FIG. 19), and when the last carton isdispensed from the magazine, feeler finger 161 is released to swing intothe magazine. Spring 165 thereupon rotates arm 155 clockwise as viewedin FIG. 20 from its FIG. 20 position (wherein it has held lever 147 up)to the position such as shown in FIGS. 8, 12 and 16 (the magazine emptyposition), thereby carrying roller 153 out from under lever 147 andreleasing the latter to deactuate the empty switch.

At the bottom of each column C is a chute 167 for delivering a cartondispensed from any one of the three magazines in the column to a pan 169in the door 7. The latter has yan access opening '171 for access to acanton delivered toi the pan. `Each chute comprises a pair of side Walls173 and an inclined bottom 175 which slopes downward from the [reartoward the (front of the machine, corresponding to the steppedarrangement of the lower ends of the three magazines in the column. Acanton sliding off the trap door 53 of any magazine in a column dropsdown ontoi `the bottom 175 o-f the respective chute, and slides down thechute to the pan 169.

As y-will be apparent, the three motors EM and the three switches MS ontop of each column C are carried out of the cabinet 1 when the column ismoved to loading position, Aand back into the cabinet when the column ismoved back in `to its retracted position within fthe cabinet. Means isprovided for connecting the three motors EM and the three switches MS ontop of each column C into an electrical control system of the machine tobe described when the column is in retracted position, and fordisconnecting the three motors from the system when the column is pulledout of the cabinet. As shown, :this means comprises a contact assembly177 on top 0f column C and a contact `assembly 179 carried by the top ofthe cabinet 1. Contact assembly '177 comprises an insulation board 181carrying seven wipers such as indicated at 183. This board is mounted ontop of a support provided on channel 9. Contact assembly 179 comprisesan insulation board 137 spring-mounted as indicated at 1'89 underneaththe top of the cabinet 1, and carrying seven contacts engageable bywipers 183 on board 1181 when the column is in its retracted position inthe cabinet. On pulling out the column, wipers 183 disengage from thecontacts on board 137. As will be readily understood, suitable wiringharness is provided in channel 9 connecting wipers 183 tothe threemotors EM and three switches MS on the channel. This wiring harness hasbeen omitted from FIGS. 8 and 16.

Each door 7 of the cabinet 1 has a large window 191 (see FIG. l)bethind, which is a panel 193 on which samples of cartons stocked in themachine may be displayed. Below the window 191 is the access opening171, which extends the full width of the six columns C1-C6. At the rightside of the left-hand door is an array of push buttons each genericallydesignated by the letter B. There are eighteen such push buttons in thisarray, one for each of the eighteen magazines M1- M18 of the left-handunit of the machine, arranged in a ver-tical series of nine pairs, yandspecifically designated B1 to B18. Button B1 is related to magazine M1,button B2 is related to magazine M12, etc. There is a similar array ofeighteen push buttons 4for the eighteen magazines of the right-hand unitof the machine. Above each button is a small window 193 through whichmay be displayed a printed card or the like denoting the brand ofcigarettes in the respective magazine and the price thereof. Each of thebuttons is adapted to be pushed in by a purchaser to actuate a switchgenerically designated by letter S, there being eighteen of theseswitches.

The electrical control system of the machine is illustrated in FIGS. 2land 22. For condensation o-f the drawings tand simplification of thedescription, FIGS. 2l and 22 show only those components of the systemfor controlling the operation olf the motors for -the rst threemagazines M1, M2, M3 of the left-hand unit of the machine. Certain ofthe components shown in FIG. 22 are also utilized in controlling themotors of magazines M4-M18 of the lett-hand unit. rI'he additionalcornponents required for controlling the motors tor these magazinesMl-M118 fare simply additive to those shown in FIGS. 2l and 22, andidentical to certain components shown in FIGS. 2l .and 22, as will bemade clear. It will be understood that the control system for theeighteen magazines of the right-hand unit of the machine is a duplicateof the control system for the eighteen magazines of the left-hand unit.

FIG. 22 shows the portion of the electrical control system in themoney-handling unit 3. This comprises push-button-responsive relaysR1-R3, controlled by the switches S1, S2 and S3 which are `operated bypush buttons B1, B2 and B3, respectively, and four additional relays RA,RB, RC and RD. Here it will be understood that, with eighteen magazinesin the left-hand funit and the eighteen push buttons and switchestherefor, moneyhandling unit 3 will actually include eighteen relayslike R1, R2 and R3. Each of relays R1, R2 and R3 is a single-throwtriple-pole relay. Thus, relay R1 comprises a coil CRI, and ythreenormally open switches R1a, Rlb and Rlc. Relay R2 comprises a coil CRZ,and three normally open switches R2a, R2b and R2c. Relay R3 comprises acoil CR3, :and three normally open switches R3a, R3b and RSc. Relay RAis a single-throw double-pole relay comprising a coil CRA, `and twonormally open switches RAa and RAb. Relays RB and RC are singlethrowdouble-pole relays. Relay RB has a coil CRB and two normally openswitches RBa and RBb. Relay RC has a coil CRC and two normally closedswitches RCa and RCb. Relay RD, as shown in FIG. 22, is a singlethrowtriple-pole relay having .a coil CRD, and three normally open switchesRDa, RDb and RDC. However, it will be understood that, with eighteenmagazines in the left-hand lunit, relay RD Iwill actually have eighteenswitches in all.

A main power line PL leads into unit 3, and a neutral line NL leads outof unit 3. Switch Rlb is connected in a line L33 extending from powerline PL. Switch R2b is connected in a line L34 extending from power linePL. Switch R3b is connected in a line L35 extending from power line PL.Here it will be understood that, in the complete electrical controlsystem for the eighteen magazines of the left-hand unit, there areeighteen relays like R1, R2 and R3 and eighteen lines like L33, L34 andL35 extending from these relays. Switches R10, R and R3c are connectedin branch lines 201, 203 and 205 connected to a common line 207 whichincludes coil CRD of relay RD and which connects to neutral line NL.Normally closed switch RCa of relay RC is connected in series with coilCRA of relay RA and a money switch 208 in a line 209 connected betweenpower line PL and neutral line NL. Switch 208 is normally open, beingclosed in response to insertion by a purchaser into money-handling unit3 of a suicient amount of money. When switch 208 closes, relay coil CRAis energized.

Switches RDa, RDb and RDC of relay RD are respectively connected inseries with coils CRl, CR2 and CRS of relays R1, R2 and R3 via linesL15, L16, L17 and a common return line 211 connected to line 207 andthus connected to neutral line NL. Switches Rla, R251 and R361 areconnected in holding circuits 213, 215 and 217 for relay coils CRL CR2and CR3, respectively, branching oli from line 209, and each beingthereby in series with switch RCa of relay RC. A holding circuit 219 isprovided for relay coil CRA. This holding circuit includes normallyclosed switch RCb and normally open switch RAa and is adapted to shuntmoney switch 208. Switch RBb of relay RB and coil CRC are connected inseries with one another in a line L3 which is connected to neutral lineNL. Coil CRB is connected in a line L4 which is connected to neutralline NL. A holding circuit 221 for coil CRB is connected between lines207 and L4 and includes switch RBa. A line L1 is connected directly topower line PL. A line L2 is connected to line 207,

v10 hence to neutral line NL. A line L6 including switch Mb is connectedto power line PL, A line L7 including an empty signal lamp E isconnected to line 207.

Now referring to FIG. 2l, lines L33, L34 and L35 are shown to berespectively connected to one terminal of each of motors EM1, EMZ andEMS, respectively. Line L2 is a common line for the other terminals ofthe motors. Here it will be understood that, with eighteen motors in theleft-hand unit of the machine, there are actually eighteen lines likeL33, L34 and L35 in the machine, each connected to a respective motor,and that all eighteen motors are connected to line L2. The emptyswitches E81, E82 and E83 for magazines M1, M2 and M3 are shown in FIG.2l, and it will be understood that eighteen such empty switches wouldactually appear in FIG. 2l if the latter were expanded to show thecontrol system for all eighteen magazines of the left-hand unit. Eachempty switch is a double-throw switch having a blade 223 normally closedon a first contact 225 and movable to close on a second contact 227 whenthe last carton in the respective magazine is dispensed. Lines L15, L16and L17 are connected to contacts 225 of empty switches E81, E82 andE83.

FIG. 2l also shows the purchaser-operable switches S1, S2 and S3 (whichare operated by the push buttons B1, B2 and B3). It will be understoodthat eighteen such switches would appear in FIG. 2l if the latter wereexpanded to show the control system for all eighteen magazines of theleft-hand unit of the machine. Switch S1 is a single-throw normally openswitch. Each of switches S2 and S3 is a double-throw switch, having ablade 229 normally closed on a first contact 231 and movable to close ona second contact 233. The purchaseroperable switches for magazinesMrt-M18 would be double-throw switches like S2 and S3. Line L6 isconnected to the blade of the last switch. The blade of switch S1 isconnected to the iirst contact of switch S2 by a line 235, the blade ofswitch S2 is connected to the first contact of switch S3 by a similarline 235 and, in the complete system for all eighteen magazines of theleft-hand unit, this relationship continues all the way to the lastswitch (which would be switch S18). The blade of the rst empty switchE81 is connected by a line 237 to the first purchaser-operable switch S1for completion of an L6-L15 circuit when switch S1 is in its normalposition wherein its blade 223 is on its first contact 225. This L6-L15circuit is completed via the remaining purchaseroperable switches S2 andS3.

FIG. 21 shows two manually operable double-throw double-prole switchesS81 and S82. These are magazine transfer switches. Seventeen suchswitches would appear if FIG. 21 wehe expanded to show the controlsystem` for all eighteen magazines of the left-'hand unit of themachine. Each such tnansfer switch is Iadapted to be set either in a rstposition for control of each magazine solely by fthe related pushbutton, or in a second position for automatically transferring vending`operations from one magazine to another when Ithe former is emptied.Thus, for example, switch S81, when set in its second position,automatically transfers vending operations from magazine M1 mo magazineM2 when magazine M1 is emptied, and allows either button B1 or B2 to bepushed in for vending from M1 or M2. Switch SSZ, when set in its secondposition, automatically transfers vending operation-s from magazine M2to magazine M3 when magazine M2 is emptied, and allows either button B2or B3 to be pushed in Ifor vending from M2 or M3. With both switches SSland S82 set in second position, vending occurs from magazine M1 until itis empty on pushing any of buttons B1, B2 or B3, rthen thorn M2 unt-ilit is empty no matter which of these buttons is pushed, and then trom M3no matter which of 'these buttons is pushed. The arrangement is suchthat i-t is possible to set up the machine rfor vending different brandsfrom each of .the eighteen magazines (in which, case all the transferswitches are lefit in iirst posi,-

tion) or for vending .the same brand (from any desired number ofmagazines. For example, the first three magazines M1-M3 may be stockedwith the same brand, and switches SS1 and SS2 set for automatic transferfrom M1 to M2 when M1 is empty and from M2 to M3 when M2 is empty. Pushbuttons B21-B6 would then be designated (by means of the cards in thesmall windows) as controlling the vending of the same brand, Iandpushing in .any one of these lbuttons results in dispensing from M1until it is empty, from M2 until it is empty, and then from M3. Thetnansfer switches may be toggle switches, for example, and mounted inany convenient location in the machine.

Each transfer switch comprises la pair of blades 239 Kand 241 movablefrom a lirst position closed on contacts 243 and 245 to a secondposition closed on contacts 247 and 249. The blade 239 of each transferswitch is connected by -a line 251 to the contact 227 of the respectiveempty switch. Thus, blade 239 of switch SS1 is connected to Contact 227of empty switch E81, etc. Contact 2113 of each transfer switch isconnected by `a `line 253 to line L7. Contact 247 of each transferswitch is connected by a line 255 to the lblade 223 of the nextsuccessive empty switch. Thus, contact 247 of switch SS1 is connected toblade 223 of empty switch ES2, etc. Contacts 24.5 and 247 of eachtransfer switch are interconnected as indicated at 257. A line 259connects line 237 and contact 249 of switch S81. Each transfer switchhas its blade 241 connected by a line 261 to contact 233 of the nextsuccessive purchaseroperable switch :and by la line 263 to the contact249 of the nent successive transfer switch. Thus, blade 241 ci utransfer switch SS1 is connected to contact 233 of switch S2 and tocontact 249 of transfer switch SS2. Contact 227 `of empty switch ESS isshown Ias connected by a line 265 to line L7. Actually, in the completecircuit for all eighteen magazines, it would be connected by a -linecorresponding to `lines 251 .to the blade 239 of the next transferswitch (which would be SS3). Also, while FIG. 21 shows line L6 connectedto 'the blade orf switch S3, it will b-e understood .that in thecomplete layout, L6 would be connected to the blade of Ia switch S18 andswitches S4- S18 woul-d be added between S3 and line L6.

FIG. 2l shows the cam-operated switches MS1, MS2 and MSS for the firstthree magazines M1, M2 and M3, and it will be understood that eighteensuch switches would lappear in a yfull layout. Each of these switches isa double-throw switch, having 'a lblade 267 adapted to close on eitherof iirst land second contacts 269' and 271. Line L1 is connected to theblade of the first switch MS1 and line L3 is connected to contact 2619of the last switch. The contact 2619 of each switch except the last isconnected to the blade 267 of the next switch as indicated at 273, sothat an L1-L3 circuit is established when all the switches are closed oncontacts 26,9. Contacts 2711 are connected -as indicated iat 275 to lineL4.

Operation is as follows:

It will irst be assumed that transfer switches SS1 and SS2 `are set intheir first position in which they :appear in FIG. 2l. Money switch 298is closed by the purchasers insertion of an appropriate amount of moneyin moneyhandling unit 227. Upon closure of money switch 29S, a circuitfor relay coil CRA is completed from power line PL via [line 269'including normally closed switch RCa of relay RC to neutral line NL.Relay switches RAzz and RAb thereupon close. Upon closure of switch RAa,holding circuit 219 for rel-ay RA is completed (switch RCb being closed)to shunt switch 203. Upon closure of switch RAb, line L6 is connected tothe power line PL.

Now assuming that the purchaser pushes button B1 to obtain a carton frommagazine M11 (and assuming that there is `at least one carbon in thelatter), switch S1 is closed and a circuit is thereby completed throughthe series of purchaser-operated switches S1, S2, etc., between lines L6and L15 (see PEG. 2l). VMomentary closure of switch S1 is sufficient.Line L6 being energized and connected to line L15, a circuit iscompleted for relay coil CR1 (see FIG. 22) via line L15 (switch RDabeing closed), and lines 211 and 267 to neutral line NL. Switches Rla,R112 and R1c thereupon close. Upon closure of switch R1a, holdingcircuit 213 for relay R1 is completed. Upon closure of switches R1b andR10, lines L33 and 207 are energized. With line 207 energized, relaycoil CRD is energized, and switches RDa, RDI) and RDC open. With theseswitches open, repeated operation of buttton B1 or operation of otherbuttons is ineffective to cause any circuit changes.

With line L33 energized, motor EMl for magazine M1 is energized to drivecrank 37 and cam lobe 99 for magazine M1. Crank 87 drives link 91connected thereto downward, then pulls it back upward. As link 91 movesdownward, it swings the crank arms 41 of Imagazine M1 downward (boththese arms being ixed on the end of shaft 39 of magazine M1. Arms 41carry rod 59 downward, thereby positively swinging the trap door 53 ofmagazine M1 downward from its horizontal raised position of FlG. l() toits downwardly extending position of FlG. l1. As arms 41 swing downward,rod 47 slides under the bias of springs 49 from its retracted positionof EFIG. l0 to its stack-supporting position of FlG. ll to hold up allthe cartons above the lowermost carton. As rod 47 slides tostack-supporting position, presser plate 63 swings into the magazineunder the bias of springs 73 to clamp the second carton and prevent itfrom tipping on rod 47. Accordingly, all the cartons above the lowermostcarton are held up as the trap door 53 swings downward, and thelowermost carton slides off the trap door and into the column C1 chute167 for delivery to the pur- Chaser.

When link 91 is pulled back upward by crank 817, crank arms 41 are swungback upward and rod 59 returns the trap door 53 to its raised position.Arms 41 also push rod A477 back to its retracted position against thebias of springs 49, and rod 47, in returning to retracted position,pushes presser plate r6,3 back to retracted position against the bias ofspring 73. The stack in magazine M1 then drops down onto the trap door53.

As cam lobe 99, rotating with crank 87, approaches the end of arevolution, it actuates the control switch MS1 for motor EMl, i.e., itopens blade 2617 of this switch from contact 269 and closes this bladeon contact 271 (see FIG. 211). This connects 4line L1 (energizeddirectly from power line PL) to line L4. Coil CRB of relay RB isthereupon energized via line L4, and switches RBa and RBb of this relayclose. Closure of switch RBa establishes holding circuit 221 for coilCRB. Cam lobe 99 rides ofi the actuator i101 of switch M81 Vas the lobeand crank 37 complete a revolution, so that switch MS1 returns to itsinitial position with its blade 267 on contact i269. Accordingly, lineL3 is energized from line L1. With line L3 energized and switch RBb ofrelay RB closed, coil CRC of relay RC is energized. This opens switchesRCa and RCb. This deenergizes holding circuit 219 for relay CRA, and thelatter opens. lt also deenergizes holding circuit 213 yfor relay R1 andthe latter opens. With R1 open, switches Rlb and Rf1c lare open todeenergize lines L33 and 307, with the result that motor EM1 and relaycoils CRD and CRB are deenergized. Relay RD thus recloses and relay RBreopens. When relay RB opens, relay RC is deenergized and its switchesreclose. Thus, the initial circuit conditions are restored to be inreadiness for the next vend cycle.

When the last carton in magazine M1 is dispensed, empty switch E81 isdeactuated as previously described, i.e., its blade 223 (see FIG. 2l)opens off contact 225 and closes on contact 227 Then, when a purchaserpushes in button B11, a circuit is completed for the empty signal lamp Evia line L6, the series of button-actuated switches S1, S2, etc., line227, blade 223, line 251 extending from switch E81, blade 229 oftransfer switch SS1, line 253, line L7 and line 297 to neutral line NL.The empty 13 signal lamp E in line L7 is thereby energized to indicatethat magazine M'l is empty and to advise the purchaser to make anotherselection.

Assuming that a purchaser (after insertion of money to close switch 208)pushes button B2 to obtain a carton from magazine M2 (and assuming thatthere are cartons in the latter), switchl S2 is closed and a circuit isthereby completed between lines L6 and L16 via S3, S2, line 261, blade241 and contact 245 of transfer switch SS1, zlines 257 and 255 Vandblade 223 and contact 225 of empty switch |ES2. Line 6 being energizedand connected to line L16, a circuit is completed vfor relay coil CR2(see FIG. 22) via line L16 (switch RDb being closed), and lines 211 and207 to neutral line NL. Switches R2a, R2b and RZC thereupon close. Uponclosure of switch R211, holding circuit -215 Afor relay R2 is completed.Upon closure of switches R2b and R2c, lines L34 and 207 are energized.With line 2.07 energized, relay coil CRD is energized, and -switcheslRDa, RDb and RDC open to render the push buttons ineffective. Withlline L34 energized, motor -E-MZ for magazine. M2 is energized to drivecrank 87 and cam lobe 99 for magazine M2, and this results in dispensingof a carton from magazine M2 in the same manner as above described formagazine M1.

As the cam lobe 99 associated with magazine M2, rotating with therespective crank 8.7, approaches the end f a revolution, it actuates thecontrol switch MS2 for motor BMZ, Le., it opens blade 267 of this switchfrom contact 269 and closes this blade on contact 271 (see FIG. 21).This connects line L1 (energized directly from power line PL) to lineL4. Coil CRB of relay RB is thereupon energized via line L4, andswitches RBa and RBb of this relay close. Closure of switch RBaestablishes holding circuit 221 for coil CRB. Cam lobe 99 rides ott theactuator 101 of switch MS2 as the lobe and crank 87 complete arevolution so that switch MS2 returns to its initial' position with itsblade 267 on Contact 269. Accordingly, line L3 is energized from lineL1. With line L3 energized and switch RBb of relay RB closed, coil CRCof relay RC is energized. This opens switches RCa and RCb. Thisdeenergizes holding circuit 219 for relay CRA,l and the latter opens. Italso deenergizes holding, circuit 215 for relay R2 and the latteropens., With R2 open, switches R2b and R20 are open to deenergize linesL34 and 207, with the result that motor EMZ and relay coils CRD and CRBare deenergized. Relay RD thus recloses and relay RB reopens. When relayRB opens, relay RC is deenergized and its switches reclose. Thus, theinitial circuit conditions are restored to be in readiness for the nextVend cycle.

When the last carton in magazine M2 is dispensed, empty switch ES2 isdeactuated' as previously described, i.e., its blade 223 (see FIG. 21)opens off its contact 225 and closes on its contact 227. Then, when apurchaser pushes in button B2, a circuit is completed for the emptysignal lamp E via line L6, switches S3 and S2, line 261 extending fromS2, blade 241 and contact 245 of transfer switch LL1, lines 257 and 255extending to empty switch ES2, blade 223 and contact 227 of the latter,line 251 extending from switch ES2, blade 239 and contact 243 oftransfer switch SS2, line 253 extending from the latter, line L7 andline 207 to neutral line NL. The empty signal lamp E in line L7 isthereby energized to indicate that magazine M2 is empty and to advisethe purchaser to make another selection.

Assuming that a purchaser (after insertion of money to close switch 208)pushes button B3 to obtain an item from magazine M3 (and assuming thatthere are cartons in the latter), switch S3 is closed and a circuit isthereby completed between lines L6 and L17 via S3, line 261 extendingfrom S3, blade 241 and contact 245 of transfer `switch S53, lines 257and 255 extending from SS3 and blade 223 and contact 225 of empty switchES3. Line 6 being energized and connected to line L17,

a circuit is completed for relay coil CR3 (see FIG. 22) via line L17(switch RDC being closed), and lines 211 and 207 to neutral line NL.Switches R3a, R3!) and R3'c thereupon close. Upon closure of switch R3a,holding circuit 217 for relay R3 is completed. Upon closure of switchesR31: and R30, lines L35 and 207 are energized. With line 207 energized,relay coil CRD is energized, and switches RDa, RDb and RDC open torendery the push buttons ineiective. With line L35 energized, motor EM3for magazine M3 is energized to drive crank 87 and cam lobe 99 formagazine M3, and this results in dispensing of a carton from magazine M3in the sarne manner as above described for magazine M1.

As the cam lobe 99 associated with magazine M3, rotating with therespective crank 87, approaches the end of a revolution, it actuates thecontrol switch M53 for motor EM3, i.e., it opens blade 267 of thisswitch from contact 269 and closes this blade on contact 271 (see FIG.2l). This connects lines L1 (energized directly from power line PL) toline L4. Coil CRB of relay RB is thereupon energized via line L4, andswitches RBa and RBb of this relay close. Closure of switch RBaestablishes holding circuit 221 for coil CRB. Cam lobe 99y rides ofi'the actuator 101 of switch M83 as the lobe and crank 87 complete arevolution so that switch M83 returns to its initial position with itsblade 267 on contact 269. Accordingly, line L3 is energized from lineL1. With line L3 energized and switch RBb of relay RB closed, coil `CRCof relay RC is energized. This opens switches RCa and RCb. Thisdeenergizes holding circuit 219 for relay CRA, and the latter opens. Italso deenergizes holding circuit 217 for relay R3 and the latter opens.With R3 open, switches R3b and R3@` are open to deenergize lines L35 and207, with the result that motor EM3 and relay coils CRD and CRB aredeenergized. Relay RD thus recloses and relay RB reopens. When relay RBopens, relay RC is deenergized and its switches reclose. Thus, theinitial circuit conditions are restored to be in readiness for the nextvend cycle.

When the l-ast carton in magazine M3 is dispensed, empty switch E83 isdeactuated as previously described, i.e., its blade 223 opens off itscontact 225 and closes on its contact 227. Then, when a purchaser pushesin button B3, a circuit is completed for the empty signal lamp E vialine L6, switch S3, line 261 extending from S3, blade 241 and con-tact245 of transfer switch S82, lines 257 and 255 extending from the latter,line 265, line L7 and line 207 to neutral line NL. The empty signal lampE in line L7 is thereby energized to indicate that magazine M3 is emptyand to advise the purchaser to make another selection.

Now it will be assumed that both transfer switches SS1 and SS2 are setin their second position, in which their blades 239 and 241 are oncontacts 247 and 249. Under these circumstances, closure of any one ofswitches S1, S2 or S3 results in energization of line L15 forenergization of line L33 to energize motor EM1 for magazine M1 forvending therefrom until it is emptied. Thus, when switch S1 is closed,line L15 is energized in the same manner as previously described. WhenS2 is closed, line L15 is energized from line L6 via switch S3, line 235connecting S3 and S2, blade 229 and contact 233 of S2, line 261, blade241 and contact 249 of transfer switch SS1, lines 259 and 237, and blade223 and contact 225 of empty switch ESI. When S3 is closed, line L15 isenergized from line L6 via S3, line 261 extending from S3, blade 241 andcontact 249 of transfer switch SS2, line 263, blade 241 and contact 249of transfer switch SS1, lines 259 and 237 and blade 223 and contact 225of empty switch ESI.

When magazine M1 is emptied, the blade 223 of empty switch ES1 opensfrom its contact 225 and closes on its l contact 227. Thereupon, closureof any one of switches S1, S2 or S3 results in energization of line L16for energization of line L34 to energize motor EMZ'for magazine M2 forvending therefrom until it is empty. Thus, when switch S1 is closed,line L16 is energized from line L6 via switches S3, S2, S1, line 237,blade 223 and contact 227 of switch ES1, line 251 extending from ESI,blade 239 and contact 247 of transfer switch SS1, line 255 extendingfrom the latter, and blade 223 and contact 225 of switch ES2. When S2 isclosed, lines L16 is energized from line L6 via switches S3 and S2, line261, blade 241 and contact 249 of transfer switch SS1, line 259, line237, blade 223 and contact 227 of ES1, line 251 extending from ES1,blade 239 and contact 247 of transfer switch SS1, line 255 extendingfrom the latter, and blade 223 and contact 225 of ES2. When S3 isclosed, line L16 is energized from line L6 via switch S3, line 261extending from S3, blade 241 and Contact 249 of transfer switch SS2,line 263, line 261 connected to blade 241 of SS1, and thence to line L16in the same manner as when S2 is closed.

When magazine M2 is emptied, blade 223 of empty switch ES2 opens fromits contact 225 and closes on its contact 227. Thereupon, closure of anyone of switches S1, S2 or S3 results in energization of line L17 forenergization of line L35 to energize motor EM3 for magazine M3 forvending therefrom. Thus, when switch S1 is closed, line L17 is energizedfrom line L6 via switches S3, S2, S1, line 237, blade 223 and Contact227 of empty switch ES1, line 251 extending from E81, blade 239 andcontact 2457 of S81, line 255 extending from SSI, blade 223 and contact227 of ES2, line 251 extending from ES2, blade 239 and contact 247 ofSS2, line 255 extending from SS2, and blade 223 and contact 225 of E53.When S2 is closed, line 17 is energized from line L6 via S3 and S2, line261 extending from S2, blade 241 and contact 249 of SS1, line 237 andthence to line L17 in the same manner as when S1 is closed. When S3 isclosed, line L17 is energized from L6 via line 261 extending from S3,blade 241 and Contact 249 of SS2, line 253, line 261 extending to SS1,and thence to line L17 in the same manner as when S1 is closed.

From the above, it will be apparent that, with the transfer switches SS1and SS2 for each two successive magazines or dispensers M1-M2 and M2-M3set in their first position as illustrated in FIG. 21, a circuit iscompleted for each magazine or dispenser through the respective emptyswitch ES1, ES2 or ESS only on operation of the respectivepurchaser-operable switch S1, S2 or S3 until the magazine or dispenseris empty. Thus, a circuit is completed for magazine or dispenser M1through empty switch ES1 only on operation of purchaser-operable switchS1 until M1 is empty. A circuit is completed for M2 through empty switchES2 only on operation of purchaser-operable switch S2 until M2 is empty.A circuit is completed for M3 through empty switch ESS only on operationof purchaser-operable switch S3 until M3 is empty. The mode of operationfor the remainder of the magazines in the complete layout of eighteenmagazines is the same. When any magazine is empty, and the respectivepurchaser-operable switch therefor is actuated, the empty signal lamp Eis energized.

When the transfer switches SS1 and SS2 are set in their second position,a circuit is completed for the first magazine or dispenser M1 throughits empty switch ESI each time any purchaser-operabie switch S1, S2 orS3 is actuated until the first empty switch E51 is actuated in responseto emptying of M1. When M1 is empty, a circuit for the second magazineor dispenser M2 is completed through the first empty switch ES1, thefirst transfer switch S51 and the second empty switch ES2 each time anypurchaser-operable switch S1, S2 or S3 is actuated until the secondempty switch ES2 is actuated in response to emptying of M2. When M2 isempty, a circuit for the third magazine or dispenser M3 is completedthrough the first empty switch ESL the I'irst transfer switch S81, thesecond empty switch ES2, the second transfer switch-SS2 and the thirdempty switch ESS each time any purchaser-operable switch S1, S2 or S3 isactuated until the third empty switch ESS is actuated in response toemptying of M3.

If all seventeen transfer switches .in the complete layout wereinitially set in their second position, vending would proceed insequence throughout the entire eighteen magazines or dispensers `M1-M18as each becomes empty in response to actuation of any one of theeighteen purchaser-operable switches. Usually, however, only a series ofmagazines less than the full eighteen would be so utilized.

For loading the machine, each column is pulled to its loading positio-nsuch as v:illustrated for the column C5 in FIG. 3. Flaps 35 of eachmagazine of ythe column are then slid upward and swung outward forinsertion of cartons in the magazine from the right side of the column,where the magazines are accessible for such side loading. When a columnis pulled out, the contact assembly 177 on top of the column disengagesfrom the fixed contact assembly 179 at the top of the cabinet. When thecolumn is pushed back in after loading, assembly 177 re-engages assembly179.

In view of lthe above, it will be seen that the several objects of theinvention are achieved and other advantageous results attained.

As various changes could be made in the above constructions withoutdepanting from the scope yof the invention, it is intended that allmatter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanyingdrawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limitingsense.

We claim:

1. Dispensing apparatus comprising a magazine of rectangular shape incross section adapted to receive a stack of items to be vended, a rockshaft extending between two opposite sides of the magazine at a thirdside of the magazine and adjacent 'the bottom of the magazine, crankarms on fthe ends of the shaft outside said two opposite sides of themagazine, a trap door swingable with the crank arms on the axis of theshaft adapted to occupy a raised position for holding up the stack andbeing swingable downward from raised position ttor dispensing thelowermost item, the shaft extending adjacent one edge of the door andbeing offset below the upper surface of the ydoor so that the door mayswing down freely without pushing up on the stack, a rod slidable inhorizontal slots in said two opposite sides of the magazine at a levelcorresponding to the level of the bottom of the second item next abovethe lowermost item, each crank Iarm having a connection with arespective end of the rod, and means connected to one of the crank armsfor rocking it away from and back to a retracted position Ito effectdownward swing of the trap door and movement of the trod from aretracted position clear of the stack to a stack-supporting positionunder the second item and then to effect retraction of the rod andraising of the door.

2. Dispensing apparatus as set forth in claim 1, the arms having aconnection with the rod by having notches receiving the ends of the rod,spring means biasing the rod toward stack-supporting position, thenotches being `formed so that the arms disengage f-rom the rod beforedownward swing of the door is completed, the spring means thencompleting the movement of the rod to stacksupponting position.

3. Dispensing apparatus as set forth in claim 2, a presser plate pivotedat said third side of the magazine for movement from a retractedposition clear of the stack through an opening in said third side topress sidewise against the second item, and spring means biasing theplate toward the second item, said plate being engageable with the rodand being held in retracted position by the rod when the latter is inretracted position, and being released for movement toward the second 17item when the rod moves toward stack-supporting position.

4. A vending machine comprising a cabinet, a plurality of vendingcolumns, each column comprising an elongate top member and a pluralityof magazines sercured at their upper ends to the top member andextending down therefrom, said magazines being of rectangular crosssection and spaced along the length of the -top member, means at the topof the cabinet mounting the column top members for sliding movement infront-to-rear direction whereby each column may be moved infront-to-rear direction lfrom a position within the cabinet to a loadingposition outside the cabinet, each magazine being adapted to hold astack of items and to be loaded with items yfrom one side thereof whenthe column including the magazine is in loading position, each magazinehav-ing a trap door pivoted at the bottom thereof on a horizontal axisextending between the front and back of the magazine, said door beingadapted -to occupy a raised position for holding up the stack in themagazine and being swingable downward from raised position fordispensing the lowermost item, each magazine also having means forholding up all items above the lowermost item While the respective trapdoor swings down 4and until it is raised back to closed positionwhereupon the stack is released to drop down onto the door, and eachmagazine having means for actuating the respective trap door and holdingmeans including an electric motor mounted on the respective top memberand a connection to said trap :door and holding means at the rear of themagazine.

5. A vending machine as set forth in claim 4 wherein each column has acontact assembly on the top member thereof with connections from saidcontact assembly to the motors on said top member, and wherein contactassemblies, one for each column, are fixed at the top of the cabinet,the contact assembly on the top member of each column contacting therespective fixed contact assembly when the column is in the cabinet anddisengaging therefrom when the column is moved to loading position.

6. A vending machine comprising a cabinet, a plurality of vendingcolumns, each comprising a plurality of magazines one behind another,each magazine being adapted to hold a stack of items to be vended, meansmounting the columns for individual sliding movement thereof infront-to-rear direction from a position within the cabinet to a loadingposition outside the cabinet, the columns being positioned side-by-sideclosely adjacent one another when in the cabinet, any magazine beingadapted to be loaded with items from one side thereof when the columnincluding that magazine is in loading position, actuating meansassociated with each magazine for effecting the dispensing of itemstherefrom, the actuating means for each magazine including an electricmotor mounted on top of the respective column, a contact assembly on topof each column with connections from said contact assembly to the motorson top of the column, and fixed contact assemblies, one for each column,at the top of the cabinet, the contact assembly on top of each columncontacting the respective fixed contact assembly when the column is inthe cabinet and disengaging therefrom when the column is moved toloading position.

7. A vending machine comprising a cabinet having a front door and aremovable back panel, a plurality of vending columns, each comprising aplurality of magazines one behind another, each magazine being adaptedto hold a stack of items to be vended, means mounting the columns forindividual sliding movement thereof from a position within the cabineteither through the front of the cabinet when the door is open to aloading position in front of the cabinet or through the rear of thecabinet when the panel is open to a loading position in the rear of thecabinet, the columns being positioned side-by-side closely adjacent oneanother when in the cabinet, any magazine being adapted to be loadedwith items from one side thereof when the column including that magazineis in either loading position, and actuating means associated with eachmagazine for effecting dispensing of items therefrom.

8. A vending machine as set forth in claim 7 wherein the mounting meansfor each column comprises a pair of xed rails at the top of the cabinetand a pair of extensible rails slidable relative to the fixed rails, thecolumn being suspended from the extensible rails and slidable relativethereto, each of the extensible rails having a stop interchangeable asto position to limit either the forward or rearward sliding movement ofthe extensible rails relative to the fixed rails, and each column havinga stop for limiting either its forward or rearward sliding movementrelative to the respective extensible rails.

9. In a vending machine, a magazine adapted to receive a stack of itemsto be vended, a pivoted trap door at the bottom of the magazine adaptedto occupy a raised position for holding up the stack and swingabledownward from raised position for dispensing the lowermost item, andmeans for holding up all items above the lowermost item while the doorswings down and until it is raised back to closed position whereupon thestack is released to drop down onto the door, said means cornprising anauxiliary stack support movable from a retracted position clear of thestack to a stack-supporting position under the second item next abovethe lowermost item, and a presser movable from a retracted positionclear of the stack into engagement with one side of the second item,said auxiliary stack support comprising a rod mounted for horizontalsliding movement in a direction transverse to its length from aretracted position at one side of the stack to a stack-supportingposition generally centered under the second item, said pressercomprising a pivoted plate spring-biased toward the second item andnormally held back by said rod against the spring bias in retractedposition clear of the stack and adapted on engagement with one side ofthe second item to prevent tilting of the second item on said rod.

10. In a vending machine, a magazine of rectangular shape in crosssection vadapted to receive a stack of items to be vended, a trap doorpivoted at the bottom of the magazine on a horizontal axis extendingbetween two opposite sides of the magazine, said door being adapted tooccupy a raised position for holding up `the stack and being swingabledownward from raised position for dispensing the lowermost item, thepivot axis of the door extending adacent one edge of the door and beingoffset below the upper surface of the door so that the door may swingdown freely without pushing up on the stack, and means for holding upIall items above the lowermost item while the door swings down and untilit is .raised back to closed position whereupon the stack is released todrop down onto the door, said means including a rod slidable inhorizontal slots in said two opposite sides of the magazine at a levelcorresponding to the level of the bottom of the second item next abovethe lowermost item, said rod normally occupying a retracted positionclear of the stack and being slidable in said slots to astack-supporting position under said second item as the door swingsdown, and a presser plate pivoted on the magazine for swinging movementfrom a retracted position clear of the magazine into engagement with oneside of the second item, spr-ing means biasing the plate toward thesecond item, the plate being controlled by the rod and normally beingheld back in retracted position by the rod when the latter is in itsretracted position.

ll. A vending machine comprising a cabinet, a plurality of vendingcolumns, each comprising a plurality off magazines one behind another,each magazine being yof rectangular shape in cross section and adaptedto l@ receive a stack of items to be vended one resting on top ofanother and having .means for dispensing the lowerlmost item of thestack while holding up the remainder of the items in the stack, meansmounting the columns for individual sliding movement thereof infront-to-rear direction from a position Within the cabinet to a loadingposition outside .the cabinet, the columns being positioned side-by-sideclosely adjacent one another when in the cabinet, any magazine beingladapted to be loaded with items from one side thereof when the columnincluding that magazine is in loading position, the dispensing means foreach magazine comprising a tnap door pivoted at .the bottom of themagazine on a horizontal axis extending between the front and back ofthe magazine, said door being adapted to occupy a raised position forholding up the stack and being swingable downward from raised position-for dispensing the lowermost item, the pivot axis of the door extendingadjacent one edge of the door and being offset below the upper surfaceof the door so that the door may swing down freely without pushing up onthe stack, and means for holding up all items above the lowermost itemwhile the door swings down and until it is raised back to closedposition whereupon the stack is released to drop down onto the door,said means for holding up all items above the lowermost item comprisinga rod slidable in horizontal slots in the front and back of the magazineat a level corresponding 2,0 to the level of the bottom of the seconditem next above the lowermost item, said rod normally roccupying aretracted position clear of the stack and being slidable in Said slotsto a stack-supporting position under said second litem as the doorswings down, land a presser plate pivoted on the magazine for swingingmovement from a retracted position clear of the magazine into engagementwith one side of the second item, spring means biasing the plate `towardthe second item, the plate being controlled bythe -rod and nonmallybeing held back in retracted position by the rod when the latter yis inits retracted position.

References Cited in the le of this patent UNITED STATES PATENTS1,400,814 Grover Dec. 20, 1921 1,778,187 Du Grenier Oct. 14, 19301,969,170 Erickson Aug. 7, 1934 2,433,472 McLaughlin s Dec. 30, 19472,435,793 Mielke Feb. 20', 1948 2,805,106 Penkala Sept. 3, 19572,825,488 Nelson Mar. 4, 1958 2,919,051 Wideburg et al. Dec. 29, 19592,925,307 Stoner Feb. 16, 1960 2,954,900 Brubaker Oct. 4, 1960 2,971,675Allegri Feb. 14, 1961

1. DISPENSING APPARATUS COMPRISING A MAGAZINE OF RECTANGULAR SHAPE INCROSS SECTION ADAPTED TO RECEIVE A STACK OF ITEMS TO BE VENDED, A ROCKSHAFT EXTENDING BETWEEN TWO OPPOSITE SIDES OF THE MAGAZINE AT A THIRDSIDE OF THE MAGAZINE AND ADJACENT THE BOTTOM OF THE MAGAZINE, CRANK ARMSON THE ENDS OF THE SHAFT OUTSIDE SAID TWO OPPOSITE SIDES OF THEMAGAZINE, A TRAP DOOR SWINGABLE WITH THE CRANK ARMS ON THE AXIS OF THESHAFT ADAPTED TO OCCUPY A RAISED POSITION FOR HOLDING UP THE STACK ANDBEING SWINGABLE DOWNWARD FROM RAISED POSITION FOR DISPENSING THELOWERMOST ITEM, THE SHAFT EXTENDING ADJACENT ONE EDGE OF THE DOOR ANDBEING OFFSET BELOW THE UPPER SURFACE OF THE DOOR SO THAT THE DOOR MAYSWING DOWN FREELY WITHOUT PUSHING UP ON THE STACK, A ROD SLID-